©Isabelle Fabre

The best spots for paddle boarding on the Côte d'Azur

The Côte d’Azur is full of secret coves, unspoilt beaches and islands to discover: you just have to know where to look. Discover my five favourite spots for Stand Up Paddle (SUP). Freedom is yours!

Stand-Up Paddle Spot 1: The Lérins Islands, jewels of the Côte d’Azur!

Set off on a paddle to explore this unspoilt archipelago off the coast of Cannes, venturing into the small turquoise coves or getting close to the famous Fort Royal where the mysterious “Iron Mask” stayed. Be warned, however, that the crossing from Cannes to the Lérins islands is not recommended: the current can be strong and there are a lot of boats in the area. What’s more, most paddles are not allowed to go beyond the 300-metre limit. The easiest way to get there is by boat from Cannes: with over 10 departures a day, it’s quick and easy!

Boat timetable from Cannes!

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Stand-Up Paddle Spot 2: Cap Dramont and the Ile d’Or!

Opposite the Cap du Dramont beach, the Île d’Or (Golden Island) beckons. Legend has it that Hergé used it as inspiration for his album Tintin et l’Île Noire (Tintin and the Black Island). Located just a hundred metres from the shore, it’s easy to get around on a stand-up paddle. The seabed here is renowned for its scuba diving: you’re sure to see hundreds of castagnoles below you, small black or blue fish characteristic of the Mediterranean. Please note that the Ile d’Or is private. In fact, if you see a flag flying at the top of the tower, it means it’s inhabited.

Paddle at Saint-Raphael

Stand-Up Paddle Spot 3: Take a ride on the Siagne!

This soothing ride is perfect for your summer evenings. Set off from Plage Robinson in Mandelieu-La-Napoule, escape the waves and rediscover the calm of the Siagne. Here, you can zigzag between ducks, swans and geese! Take a tour of Robinson Island and explore the meandering Siagne. On the way back, if you’ve still got a bit of strength left, set off to discover the famous Château de la Napoule, a historic monument dating back to the 14th century. If you don’t have the equipment, you can hire stand-up paddles right on the beach.

Stand-Up Paddle Spot 4: Cap d’Antibes and the Baie des Milliardaires!

Departing from the Port de L’Olivette, explore Cap d’Antibes on a stand-up paddle! It would be a shame to take this trip without planning a swim break. Along the way, you’ll pass unspoilt coves and incredible beaches, some of which are only accessible by boat. Don’t miss the famous Plage des Milliardaires, a secret spot known only to the locals. Bring your towel and swimming costume to make the most of its turquoise waters. Isn’t it fantastic to be able to combine sport and relaxation on the Côte d’Azur?

The most beautiful spots to do

Paddle on the Côte d’Azur

By Isabelle FABRE

Who doesn’t dream one day of changing their life and making a living from their passions? Two years ago, I left my job as an engineer to become a photographer, videographer and Digital Nomad. I moved to Nice and fell in love with the Côte d’Azur. This region has allowed me to become what I am today: a woman who is sporty, fulfilled, in love with and respectful of nature. I’d like to share with you the beauty of this region, its many sporting opportunities and show you what made me fall in love with it!